Local Guides World
Top Hamburger restaurants in Santa Cruz, United States
Top Rated Hamburger restaurants in Santa Cruz
Top Reviewed Hamburger restaurants in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Belly Goat Craft Burgers
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
The Habit Burger Grill
Fosters Freeze
Jack in the Box
Betty Burgers
Reviews
I was expecting more, guided by the reviews. For instance, I expected a big burger with everything including cheese, bacon, and the typical sauces, but that wasn't the case. The burger was small and the "good stuff" was basically an add-on. The only thing truly good was the meat, but only because it was thick and real, not precisely because it had an excellent taste.
I had a lettuce wrap burger, cooked perfectly medium rare, with avocado, and it was delicious! The fries weren't bad either. The place was extremely busy on a Friday evening, but the staff knocked it out of the park. Great job!
Yummy burgers :)
I came with my husband to Santa cruz for late Valentine’s Day celebration…
I was craving a burger and I was surprised
it was burgers week from 2/21-2/27/2024
so we found this place and it was a very good experience. Delicious food and good prices.
highly recommend it!!
I came with my husband to Santa cruz for late Valentine’s Day celebration…
I was craving a burger and I was surprised
it was burgers week from 2/21-2/27/2024
so we found this place and it was a very good experience. Delicious food and good prices.
highly recommend it!!
I like this place. They are consistent in what I order. There is usually seating, and the place is clean. The milkshakes are pretty good
I have to come here and spend the day. I love the boardwalk rides, the food/drinks, the beach, and the wharf. It is so spectacular and so much fun. You have got to come and experience it😁‼️
Always love Betty’s, currently doing the keto diet but they make a lettuce wrap hamburger that’s juicy and flavorful. They also make great milkshakes (2 for one everyday!) My usual was the Texas Two Step ( battered onion rings, bacon, so good, but can be very juicy so make sure to get extra napkins!
Service was terrible! The food was messy. It wasn't like it used to be when I was little, many years ago.
I stopped at Jack-in-the-Box cause I’ve for the most part part always had good experiences with Jack-in-the-Box. I enjoy their food their service in the restaurants. On this day however, it was not the case. I wasn’t feeling well and I needed to use the restroom and Jack-in-the-Box is always had a open door policy with the restroom until I got to this one when they told me I couldn’t use the restroom unless I bought something first, so I’ve had to go wait in line to buy a taco so that they would open the door for me so that I could go use the facilities. It was embarrassing demeaning and as far as I’m concerned, unprofessional on their part. But after that, you would think they must have a pretty stellar looking bathroom if they were keeping everybody out of it that isn’t a customer, and that wasn’t the case either it is dirty not horribly dirty but definitely not clean. I had to take toilet paper and clean the seat off just so I could use the toilet. There was a sign in the bathroom that said it was cleaned hourly. However, the dried up urine and whatever else was on there kind of makes me think maybe they’re not really getting into it every hour, or at the very least not doing a good job. I work in field service so I was out of town and couldn’t go home to use my own restroom or I would’ve.
I don’t know if this is normal or not but when I arrived there, there were pallets of food sitting outside the restaurant in the parking lot near the drive-through, which is a very dirty area, but regardless of that it sat out there for more than 30 minutes because it was there when I got there and it was there when I left . That doesn’t inspire confidence in the food that’s for sure. In the future I will not be returning to this Jack-in-the-Box in Santa Cruz
I don’t know if this is normal or not but when I arrived there, there were pallets of food sitting outside the restaurant in the parking lot near the drive-through, which is a very dirty area, but regardless of that it sat out there for more than 30 minutes because it was there when I got there and it was there when I left . That doesn’t inspire confidence in the food that’s for sure. In the future I will not be returning to this Jack-in-the-Box in Santa Cruz
Here's the thing about chain restaurants, all I can really comment on is how consistently they can provide a high quality of food. This place consistently has better than average quality every time I go. Often this will be where i stop for lunch for the day. The best advice I can give anyone reading this is to swap your fries for onion rings and you'll thank me later
Although your cuisine is excellent, it bothers me that your manager treats your staff badly, hates delivery workers, and won't sell to some customers. She can select who she sells to and who she doesn't, she says in response to questions about why she does it. He instructs the youths under his supervision not to give directives or instructions to the immigrants.
Sadly, it's the only location where you can get meals delivered around-the-clock.
I had a terrible impression of this location in Santa Cruz, California, as a visitor.
Sadly, it's the only location where you can get meals delivered around-the-clock.
I had a terrible impression of this location in Santa Cruz, California, as a visitor.
Hardest working night shift fast food workers on the planet. Food is standard Jack but the service is what pops. I've had the pleasure of working with them for deliveries through gig jobs and they are by far the best. They honestly care about the product they produce and it shows. If your in the area be sure to check them out. Be careful on weekend nights as the lines are often spilling into the street.
Haven't been to the Santa Cruz beach boardwalk in years. We were here on the weekend, so we thought we'd take a look see.
I am impressed. The last time we were here, the area was very sketchy. Loitering, crime ridden, etc. The city and the owners of the boardwalk have a tremendous job of cleaning up the area of trash, and crime.
I watched families and children gather for fun times. Security was saturated as well as police patrols. I felt very safe, but was during the day. In all a very satisfying experience.
I am impressed. The last time we were here, the area was very sketchy. Loitering, crime ridden, etc. The city and the owners of the boardwalk have a tremendous job of cleaning up the area of trash, and crime.
I watched families and children gather for fun times. Security was saturated as well as police patrols. I felt very safe, but was during the day. In all a very satisfying experience.
A nice place to visit with kids and family. Enjoy the rides and play on beach with a nice view of ocean.
Finding a parking spot will take sometime but it’s the same at every beach spots.
If you can spare time, also club visiting Mystery spot on your trip.
Finding a parking spot will take sometime but it’s the same at every beach spots.
If you can spare time, also club visiting Mystery spot on your trip.
Talk about amazingly Fresh food! 👏 This was an impromptu stop. We did not plan this.
The food was delicious, hot to order. Everything was fresh.
I ordered "The Duke" with Betty's "special lube"
So good with a fresh basket of fries.
The staff was super friendly and fun.
We came back later from 2p-4pm and they had real ice cream style shakes like the 50's style.
The food was delicious, hot to order. Everything was fresh.
I ordered "The Duke" with Betty's "special lube"
So good with a fresh basket of fries.
The staff was super friendly and fun.
We came back later from 2p-4pm and they had real ice cream style shakes like the 50's style.
Most people are always looking for a great hamburger to enjoy. I'm no different. I had been craving a good burger for quite a while. I mean, we have your typical Jack in the box, McDonald's, etc. I happen to notice one day that habit burger grill was here on Ocean Street, in Santa Cruz. I've been to Habit Burger in Los Banos, CA. Great burgers!! So, I was happy to see one here in Santa Cruz. I ordered the double char with cheese. It comes with a large fries and Coke. Super delicious tailored to your request. if you're looking for a great burger, check this place out. You won't be disappointed.
Loved the Vanilla shakes, fries were nice and hot! Great burgers. Fast service!
1/1/24 @ 515am the lady working the drive through. She can take an order correctly and takes the initiative to suggestion a substitution even though your getting two drinks. Very pleasing to get a correct ordered order..
My first experience with Betty's Burgers was fantastic, and it certainly won't be my last. The burger was cooked to perfection, with grilled onions and Betty's secret sauce stealing the show! I also ordered some chili peppers and fries, and to top it off, they added a fried egg for the ultimate flavor explosion! 🍔🍟🍳
A decent place, I enjoyed eating my ice cream but the fried chicken patties left a lot to be desired. Still good food, can't go wrong with it.
Good place for a family outing by the sea. Many restaurants and entertainment options are available with rides, stalls,games and other entertainment options.
A clean and well maintained place with adequate and clean rest rooms make things convenient.
The sea beach is inviting and on a warm day one can wade into the water.
A clean and well maintained place with adequate and clean rest rooms make things convenient.
The sea beach is inviting and on a warm day one can wade into the water.
It's good but the menu is quiet confusing because not everything is on the actual menu you have to also look at all the advertising signs of other items they have. Some will even be for a special discounted price so it's worth taking a look at all the signe they have posted around the building .
My son, me, my granddaughter and her daughter went to get some food, since we didn't stop to get anything on our way down to Santa Cruz. My sister-in-law was with us too. We took the food to our rental house and had a good meal!
Very decently priced, delicious, the option on your fries is pretty cool, I got extra crispy, they're amazingly awesome
We went on a Sunday morning in November. Sunny, beautiful, fun! Children's laughter was the best! Shops opened slowly as we wandered through from one end to the other. Clean, safe. We had lunch in the Boardwalk then sat on the beach all afternoon. Rides for all ages. Shops, arcades, and a wonderful variety of food! Clean tables and benches as well as photo ops and info boards all along the Boardwalk. Highly recommend!
🌞⛱️🎢🎠 A Day of Pure Fun at Santa Cruz Boardwalk! 🌊🍦🤩
I recently spent a fantastic day at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, and I can’t say enough about the incredible experience! It was a true dose of California beach magic.
The moment I stepped onto the boardwalk, I was greeted with the sound of crashing waves and the scent of salty sea air. The vibrant colors of the rides and games set against the backdrop of the ocean were simply breathtaking.
And let’s talk about the food! I indulged in some scrumptious cotton candy, tried a variety of delicious treats, and relished some of the best clam chowder ever.
The best part was the genuine, laid-back, and friendly atmosphere. It’s a place where families, friends, and even solo adventurers can have a blast. Everyone was so cheerful, and the staff was incredibly helpful.
The Santa Cruz Boardwalk is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a perfect blend of seaside serenity and thrilling amusements. It’s a gem on California’s coast that never loses its shine. I’m already planning my next visit because one day is just not enough to experience all the fun and beauty this place has to offer. 🌅🎡🏖️🌊🎉
I recently spent a fantastic day at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, and I can’t say enough about the incredible experience! It was a true dose of California beach magic.
The moment I stepped onto the boardwalk, I was greeted with the sound of crashing waves and the scent of salty sea air. The vibrant colors of the rides and games set against the backdrop of the ocean were simply breathtaking.
And let’s talk about the food! I indulged in some scrumptious cotton candy, tried a variety of delicious treats, and relished some of the best clam chowder ever.
The best part was the genuine, laid-back, and friendly atmosphere. It’s a place where families, friends, and even solo adventurers can have a blast. Everyone was so cheerful, and the staff was incredibly helpful.
The Santa Cruz Boardwalk is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a perfect blend of seaside serenity and thrilling amusements. It’s a gem on California’s coast that never loses its shine. I’m already planning my next visit because one day is just not enough to experience all the fun and beauty this place has to offer. 🌅🎡🏖️🌊🎉
Amazing experience visiting the place.
The rides are decently priced as compared to famous theme & amusement parks.
There is not so much waiting time for ride to enjoy.
The food stalls in the area are good. However, I felt couple of addition of small souvenir shop can make it more appealing.
Because of my experience, would love to get the common room area (washroom) to be more maintained
The rides are decently priced as compared to famous theme & amusement parks.
There is not so much waiting time for ride to enjoy.
The food stalls in the area are good. However, I felt couple of addition of small souvenir shop can make it more appealing.
Because of my experience, would love to get the common room area (washroom) to be more maintained
One of the best burger joints in Santa Cruz hands down. The burgers are delicious, thin patty makes it very flavorful with everything else and a trademark grilled sliced bread bun. Tastes like a grilled cheese burger. It's decently priced too I paid $13ish for burger and fries, skipped the drink. Not too bad considering it's really good food. The staff seem happy/upbeat which is always nice to see and they added 3 touchscreen ordering menus which is a godsend for a joint like this that can get backed up easily with a line. Thank you for the ordering screens, it's so much nicer to take your time and not feel like you're holding up the world.
Always a great time -- sun, surf, sand, and rides. Great food choices too! We rode the Giant Dipper and the Log flume with the kids (ages 8 and 12), got dizzy 🥴 o n the tilt-a-whirl and the swinger, and had a blast. Nostalgia mixed with thrills -- what could be better for a Sunday afternoon? -- Love that you can purchase points on a card; makes the day economical for adults and kiddos alike.
Nice to see today's USA there are a few businesses that still care.
Not been in USA many years now going out to fastfood been so far very bad
High prices , bad food, unclean places & companies that don't care anymore.
#1 The Habit price increases not bad at all.
#2 restaurant are clean
#3 staff seams to real care & friendly
#4 food portions seem about same as before
#5 the tuna sandwich as tasty as I remember.
Thanks great to see at least a few fastfood places see us more than just $$$
Definitely eating there again before I leave USA again 😂
Not been in USA many years now going out to fastfood been so far very bad
High prices , bad food, unclean places & companies that don't care anymore.
#1 The Habit price increases not bad at all.
#2 restaurant are clean
#3 staff seams to real care & friendly
#4 food portions seem about same as before
#5 the tuna sandwich as tasty as I remember.
Thanks great to see at least a few fastfood places see us more than just $$$
Definitely eating there again before I leave USA again 😂
You must bring your kids here, they have everything you need, from small kids to teenage roller coasters, nice experience because they have wide range of experience from haunted castle to giant roller coaster ride, you must come try yourself, the nice thing was the line is between 10-20mins compared to Legoland and Seaworld average wait time was 30+ more, this summer when we were there waited for 1.5 hrs and 2 hrs for one ride. I think this park is nice they offer you the option to pay as you go $5-7 per ride or to pay seasonal pass $139 buy online is cheaper compared to $149 at gate. Parking $25 whole day or park on street $2.25 per hour if you can find spot which will be plenty, also you can enter this park for free, I keep mentioning park because I think this is an experience can compare to Legoland and Seaworld not very nice experience for the waiting periord, also you can enter the beach for free.
Grew up in Cali, never been to Santa Cruz till the last summer. Rode famous roller coaster, an Ariel tram. Was amazing! Would recommend getting the seasonal pass if you are going to go for more than a day. It takes more than one day to ride all the rides due to the wait times an lines. Did the freight walk.. awesome!!!!! Bought matching sweatshirts for me an my daughter. Had more fun in the 3 hrs we were there than at six flags.
What an incredible dining experience! My wife and I recently visited this restaurant, and we were absolutely blown away by the delicious food and warm ambiance. We couldn't have asked for a better evening.
First and foremost, let's talk about "The Forager" Portobello Burger. Wow! This burger was a masterpiece of flavors and textures. The juicy, blackened sous-vide portobello was cooked to perfection and had an incredibly rich, earthy taste. The Avo mash added a creamy, indulgent element that paired beautifully with the chimichurri marinated tomatoes, which brought a burst of freshness to every bite. The sunflower sprouts added a delightful crunch, and the sriracha-pimento olive aioli was the perfect blend of spicy and savory. It was a burger experience like no other, and I can't wait to have it again!
And then there were the "Crispy Naked Fries." These fries were simply outstanding. They were perfectly crispy on the outside and wonderfully fluffy on the inside. They were seasoned just right, enhancing their natural potato flavor. I couldn't stop munching on them, and neither could my wife!
The service was impeccable too. The staff was attentive and friendly, making sure we had everything we needed throughout our meal. The ambiance of the restaurant was cozy and inviting, creating a lovely atmosphere for our dinner.
Overall, our dining experience at this restaurant was a five-star delight! The Forager Portobello Burger and Crispy Naked Fries are absolute must-tries, and I can't recommend this place enough. Whether you're a vegetarian or simply looking for a unique and delicious meal, this restaurant has got you covered. We'll definitely be back for more culinary adventures. Thank you for a fantastic evening!
First and foremost, let's talk about "The Forager" Portobello Burger. Wow! This burger was a masterpiece of flavors and textures. The juicy, blackened sous-vide portobello was cooked to perfection and had an incredibly rich, earthy taste. The Avo mash added a creamy, indulgent element that paired beautifully with the chimichurri marinated tomatoes, which brought a burst of freshness to every bite. The sunflower sprouts added a delightful crunch, and the sriracha-pimento olive aioli was the perfect blend of spicy and savory. It was a burger experience like no other, and I can't wait to have it again!
And then there were the "Crispy Naked Fries." These fries were simply outstanding. They were perfectly crispy on the outside and wonderfully fluffy on the inside. They were seasoned just right, enhancing their natural potato flavor. I couldn't stop munching on them, and neither could my wife!
The service was impeccable too. The staff was attentive and friendly, making sure we had everything we needed throughout our meal. The ambiance of the restaurant was cozy and inviting, creating a lovely atmosphere for our dinner.
Overall, our dining experience at this restaurant was a five-star delight! The Forager Portobello Burger and Crispy Naked Fries are absolute must-tries, and I can't recommend this place enough. Whether you're a vegetarian or simply looking for a unique and delicious meal, this restaurant has got you covered. We'll definitely be back for more culinary adventures. Thank you for a fantastic evening!
Very friendly service and excellent food preparation. I had the Seoul Burger which was exactly what I wanted it to be. However I was unimpressed with the Italian meatball sliders as they were dry meatballs covered in red sauce. The buns were not toasted to my recollection.
Good old fashion real food. Fair prices for quality food without the wait. Custom milkshakes. And a large is large. Like a big gulp size milkshake. Friendly helpful service.
Been eating at this location for over 40 years!
Been eating at this location for over 40 years!
Drove from Oxnard CA to visit this place. Family loved it. You have to try the Big Dipper ride. Fast!!! Little hot so sunscreen and hats. Parking was 30 bucks and show up early because it gets jam packed. Make sure to purchase the card for rides and games or the wristband. For older kids and adults there are on a few large rides so before you purchase the all dY pass see if you are going to get on all the rides. 3 of use got a $100 card and were able to get on big rides and still had enough for a few games.
The burger was really big greasy and good!This is located in an interesting indoor outdoor food court that we struggled a bit to find because it’s in the back of the building. You have to order your food and they give you a device to take to any table. You pick up your food when it’s ready. It was really busy but it was nice to have other options available.
Loved it!! I visited there on my birthday 🎂 and enjoyed a lot all day.. Beautiful place, shows, rides and good food. Beach ⛱️ is beautiful but there is no cleanliness like other beaches. But overall good experience!! I like horror show and skyline. Highly recommend as it's not so far and you can explore all day... Have to go again soon 💕
Kevin is nice. The food always good. Nothing to complain about.
Overpriced and charges u more unless u have cash... Staff is good tho... But if u leave a tip dont expect anyone to give af cuz they dont.
I got a Red Bull Frosty freeze creation from here. It was pretty good for a red bull energy drink taste based frosty and the large cup was a decent size for the prize.
Solid burgers, great garlic fries. The beef has big flavor but the patties are 4 ounces too small. I ordered the surfer, maybe the cowboy is better or just get a plain burger to enjoy the beefy goodness.
I was expecting good quality ingredients and was very disappointed. Bun was ok but the meet was poor quality and tough. Fries were soggy and the only ketchup they had was with high fructose corn syrup, in addition to corn syrup itself. : (
There was to much sauce on the burger so it was very sloppy and soggy.
There was to much sauce on the burger so it was very sloppy and soggy.
Gave me one of my orders wrong from jacks munchie meal I ordered the spicy nacho chicken sandwich and siracha curly fry burger and they gave me i don’t know what this is but the manager has to talk to those people that they have working there tonight between 9pm or 10pm shift
Nostalgic 😁 Fish & chips, Bacon cheddar fries, thick milkshakes, burgers, corn dogs.
I’ve been dreaming to go this place since 2021 when I saw it on US (movie). My dream came true in August, 2023! It was a sunny day! Very hot btw, so please wear your best beach outfit (shorts, sandals, Sleeveless blouse or T-shirt), use sunscreen! The boardwalk is free! However, if you want to play you need buy a card or a bracelet. I do recommend to buy a card, because you can gain points in arcade and buy things with the points that you’ve gained through the day. Also, the card never expires ;)!
In arcade games, you don’t need to wait. But if you want to get on the roller coaster, you need to wait. I went on a Sunday, at 10am, there was no line but after 12pm, You had to wait around 30 minutes for each game.
Water and food: I recommend bring your big bottle of water and food! There’s a lot of places to buy food here but it’s not cheap and they give you a small portion. Imagine if you go with your big family, you have to buy A LOT, so it’s better if you bring sandwiches! :D
Parking: there’s a private parking that cost $30 a day. We parked our car in the street and it cost 2/hour but at the end of the day, they didn’t charge us anything ^-^ awesome!
After all that has been said, I do recommend this place if you want to play, spend your day with your loved ones and ending the day walking around the beach or if you only want a little adrenaline and escape :)
In arcade games, you don’t need to wait. But if you want to get on the roller coaster, you need to wait. I went on a Sunday, at 10am, there was no line but after 12pm, You had to wait around 30 minutes for each game.
Water and food: I recommend bring your big bottle of water and food! There’s a lot of places to buy food here but it’s not cheap and they give you a small portion. Imagine if you go with your big family, you have to buy A LOT, so it’s better if you bring sandwiches! :D
Parking: there’s a private parking that cost $30 a day. We parked our car in the street and it cost 2/hour but at the end of the day, they didn’t charge us anything ^-^ awesome!
After all that has been said, I do recommend this place if you want to play, spend your day with your loved ones and ending the day walking around the beach or if you only want a little adrenaline and escape :)
Quaint little burger place with great ice cream treats. Also old school burgers
I really wish I had a better experience here. The service was wonderful. Staff was absolutely friendly and helpful.
The burgers were, unfortunately, lackluster. I ordered a kimchi burger that just didn't have the kick that I wanted a kimchi burger to have. The kimchi was flavorless. The fried egg was perfect. Bun was toasted and beautiful.
My sister ordered a different burger that had dressed salad on it, a great idea in principle, except it soaked the bottom bun into mush within the few minutes before we started eating.
I want to give a lower rating but I really hope the management reads this and makes a couple adjustments to their menu.
I want to love this place
Edit after second visit:
Kimchi burger is still terrible, it's as of they rinsed the kimchi in water before adding it to the burger.
Fry's were okay.
The burgers were, unfortunately, lackluster. I ordered a kimchi burger that just didn't have the kick that I wanted a kimchi burger to have. The kimchi was flavorless. The fried egg was perfect. Bun was toasted and beautiful.
My sister ordered a different burger that had dressed salad on it, a great idea in principle, except it soaked the bottom bun into mush within the few minutes before we started eating.
I want to give a lower rating but I really hope the management reads this and makes a couple adjustments to their menu.
I want to love this place
Edit after second visit:
Kimchi burger is still terrible, it's as of they rinsed the kimchi in water before adding it to the burger.
Fry's were okay.
Girls day out with my daughters had to end at Betty's. 😊 This place is fun! And the food is excellent. The chili is just a little spicy and well seasoned. The burgers are lean, flavorful and you with fresh ingredients. I also loved the buns which appear house made ..or at least not out of a bag. I stole the pickle out of my daughter's Basic Betty burger and it was a delightful house made fresh pickle! Delicious! The garlic fries have real garlic on top which gives them a spicy bite. We really like spice and strong flavors so these were a hit. Fast and courteous service to top the meal off. We are coming back after our next next beach day. 😊😊😊
Always friendly service at the habit in Santa Cruz ca. I especially enjoy the ahi sandwich. Sweet potato fries are crisp and delicious. Restaurant is clean and you can usually find free parking out front on Ocean Street. They make the food to order so don’t go here if you are in a big hurry unless you order online.
I went today around 6 pm I stayed for 15 without no body taking orders one person was focused on online orders and drive thru he didn't say anything to the customers in the lobby my suggestion if you guys struggle to take orders close the lobby and take only orders on drive thru
Great burgers! Had the Ranch hand burger with the Lost Boys fries. So good! And friendly service.
We ordered the Cowboy, American classic, Seoul Surfer, and the Forager. My personal favorite was the Cowboy because of the smoked rogue blue cheese. The others looked good too. They are made with grass-fed beef, each with their unique flavors and textures. Mouth-watering good!
We were passing through and the family needed breakfast so we stopped here. Not very informative staff - they just want you to get over with the purchase so service was cold. I ended up not ordering anything cos personally their menu is very unhealthy with minimum vegetarian options.
My husband felt a bit queezy after eating his burger.
Restrooms available inside.
My husband felt a bit queezy after eating his burger.
Restrooms available inside.